John Carpenter’s ‘Lost Themes IV: Noir’ Unveils Dark Beats and Shadowy Grooves

Legendary filmmaker and composer John Carpenter, alongside his longtime musical collaborators Cody Carpenter and Daniel Davies, is set to release a new album, “Lost Themes IV: Noir,” on May 3rd, through Sacred Bones Records.
In anticipation, the trio has unveiled a captivating music video for the album’s lead single, “My Name Is Death,” directed by Ambar Navarro and starring notable talents such as Natalie Mering (Weyes Blood), Staz Lindes (The Paranoyds), and Misha Lindes (SadGirl).

The new album marks another ambitious project by Carpenter, who has seamlessly transitioned from pioneering director to influential musician, exploring new realms beyond the cinematic scores that defined his filmography. “Lost Themes IV: Noir” delves into the shadowy, atmospheric world of noir, inspired by the iconic American genre that flourished in post-war cinema. This album embodies the essence of noir, not through visual cues, but through its music – a testament to Carpenter’s unparalleled ability to evoke mood and narrative through sound.

“My Name Is Death” sets the tone for the album, featuring a fusion of post-punk basslines, ethereal synths, pulsing drum machines, and fiery guitar solos. This musical exploration is accompanied by a visually striking video that pays homage to the noir genre, blending modern aesthetics with timeless themes of darkness and intrigue.

The concept for “Lost Themes IV: Noir” was sparked by a gift from Carpenter’s wife and producer, Sandy King – a book of noir film stills. This inspired the album’s thematic direction, with titles influenced by Carpenter’s favorite noir films. Despite the orchestral scores typical of classic noir films, Carpenter, along with the Carpenters and Davies, has crafted a uniquely modern soundtrack that channels the emotional depth and complexity of noir storytelling through their signature synth-and-guitar sound.

Since the release of the first “Lost Themes” album, John Carpenter’s musical journey has been marked by a prolific output, including additional studio albums and scores for the recent Halloween reboot trilogy. The creative chemistry among Carpenter, his son Cody, and godson Daniel Davies has been a driving force behind this renaissance, showcasing their innate musical synergy and shared passion for storytelling.

“Lost Themes IV: Noir” promises to be a landmark addition to Carpenter’s musical oeuvre, offering listeners a chance to immerse themselves in a sonic landscape filled with mystery, suspense, and the palpable tension characteristic of the noir genre. Fans can pre-save or pre-order the album now, ensuring they’re among the first to experience this new chapter in Carpenter’s illustrious career.

Lost Themes IV: Noir track list

1. My Name is Death
2. Machine Fear
3. Last Rites
4. The Burning Door
5. He Walks By Night
6. Beyond The Gallows
7. Kiss The Blood Off My Fingers
8. Guillotine
9. The Demon’s Shadow
10. Shadows Have A Thousand Eyes

Lost Themes IV: Noir physical variants

• Sacred Bones Exclusive Red on Clear Splatter vinyl w/ Screen Printed 7” bonus track “Black Cathedral”, a Silver Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• Sacred Bones Society Exclusive on Black and White Splatter on Clear w/ Screen Printed 7” bonus track “Black Cathedral”, a Silver Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• All retail Transparent Red, with a Gold Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• Indie Exclusive Tan and Black Marble, w/ Screen Printed 7” bonus track “Black Cathedral”, a Gold Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• Rough Trade Exclusive Oxblood Red and Black Splatter, w/ Screen Printed 7” bonus track “Black Cathedral”, a Gold Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• Shout Exclusive Black and Clear cloudy, w/ Screen Printed 7” bonus track “Black Cathedral”, a Gold Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• Black LP, with a Gold Foil Stamped Jacket and poster.
• CD
• Tape

As anticipation builds for the album’s release, “Lost Themes IV: Noir” stands as a testament to John Carpenter’s enduring legacy as both a filmmaker and musician. With its homage to noir and the innovative use of modern musical elements, the album is set to captivate audiences and critics alike, reaffirming Carpenter’s status as a master of mood and atmosphere.

John Carpenter, Cody Carpenter and Daniel Davies – My Name is Death